Service overview

Firefighting Foam and PFAS

Fire Engineering Solutions: Leading the Way in Environmentally Conscious Fire Suppression

At Fire Engineering Solutions (FES), we have taken significant strides towards environmental sustainability by replacing over 70 tonnes of environmentally persistent foam concentrate with fluorine-free foam (F3) in multiple projects. This transition has garnered the satisfaction of the Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (DEHP). Since 2016, we have been at the forefront of developing innovative engineering techniques for various types of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) and containment systems.

Our Commitment to Environmental Responsibility:

  1. Fluorine-Free Foam (F3) Adoption: Recognizing the environmental impact of traditional foam concentrates, we have embraced fluorine-free alternatives. By replacing over 70 tonnes of foam concentrate, we have significantly reduced the release of persistent chemicals into the environment, safeguarding ecosystems and promoting sustainability.
  2. Collaboration with Regulatory Authorities: Our efforts to implement environmentally conscious fire suppression solutions have gained recognition from the Queensland DEHP. We work closely with regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and strive to exceed their expectations.
  3. Engineering Innovation: Since 2016, we have been pioneers in developing engineering techniques for AFFF and containment systems. By combining our technical expertise with innovative approaches, we enhance fire suppression capabilities while minimizing environmental impact.

Leading the Industry Towards a Sustainable Future:

  1. Sustainable Fire Suppression Solutions: Our transition to fluorine-free foam demonstrates our commitment to providing effective fire suppression solutions that prioritize environmental responsibility. We continuously explore new technologies and methodologies to offer sustainable alternatives without compromising safety and efficiency.
  2. Environmental Compliance: As an environmentally conscious organization, we strictly adhere to regulations and guidelines related to fire suppression systems. Our team stays abreast of evolving environmental standards, ensuring our solutions meet or exceed industry requirements.

  3. Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration: We actively share our expertise and collaborate with industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and environmental agencies. By fostering knowledge exchange, we collectively contribute to the development and adoption of sustainable fire suppression practices.

TOTAL SOLUTION

Replace any non-persistent firefighting foam with F3 foam

  • Efficient and Environmentally Responsible Foam Replacement Solutions by Fire Engineering Solutions

    Fire Engineering Solutions (FES) offers comprehensive services for the replacement of foam systems with a focus on efficiency and environmental responsibility. Our expert team provides site visits, technical notes, and accurate cost estimates to facilitate a seamless foam replacement process. By procuring and delivering new fluorine-free (F3) foam to the site, we ensure a zero-impact transition on the environment.

    Our Range of Services:

    1. Customized Washing Solvents: We understand the diverse chemistry and physical properties of foams. Our team develops tailored washing solvents that effectively clean contaminated tanks, pipes, fittings, and pumps, meeting the strict standards set by the Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (DEHP). Our goal is to achieve thorough cleaning while minimizing environmental impact.
    2. Efficient Contamination Removal: Utilizing bench-top and in-field testing methods, we assess the efficiency of our foam replacement process. We ensure that the cleaning and removal of contaminated substances, including Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) foam, wastewater, and solvents, are performed with the utmost care and compliance.
    3. Responsible Disposal: FES takes responsibility for the disposal of Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) contaminated materials. We collaborate with DEHP licensed companies to ensure safe and compliant disposal, adhering to environmental regulations and minimizing any potential harm to the environment.
    4. Firefighting System Modification: We meticulously modify existing firefighting systems to achieve the same level of fire performance by introducing the new F3 foam. Our team ensures that the modified system meets all safety requirements and guarantees effective fire suppression capabilities.

    5. Comprehensive Reporting: FES provides a final consistency report for the new foam, comprising detailed field records, chain of custodies, test data, certifications, and laboratory analysis. This comprehensive documentation demonstrates our commitment to transparency and accountability throughout the foam replacement process.

Risks in continuing to keep non-persistent AFFF

On July 7, 2016, Queensland passed a law that any firefighting foam containing significant amounts of Fluorine are required to be contained and not discharged under any circumstances. The legislation recognises three categories of foam concentrate:

Replace any non-persistent firefighting foam with F3 foam

C8

Those containing significant amounts of PFOS and PFOA. Most of this type of foam stock was removed for service 10 or more years ago, any foam that is still in use is required to be withdrawn from service immediately.

C6

Concentrates containing Fluorine with only trace amounts of PFOS and PFOA. C6 compliant foams have only been commercially available recently, and it is unlikely that C6 foam bought before 2017 complies with these requirements, and must therefore be classified as C8.

C6 compliant concentrate is allowed to remain in service, provided it is NOT released into the environment even during a fire. When the legislation was introduced a 3-year moratorium (expires July 2019) to allow for existing C6 installations to be upgraded, either by adding impervious containment or by replacement by F3 foam.

F3

Fluorine Free Foam, able to fight liquid-fuelled fires without restraint under this legislation. F3 is allowed to be discharged during a fire, training, or in necessary maintenance activity.

Replacing Non-Persistent Firefighting Foam: A Cost-Effective and Responsible Solution

Continuing to rely on non-persistent firefighting foam can lead to escalating costs associated with its destruction. To mitigate this, it is essential to collect and dispose of any discharge, including foam, firewater, wastewater, runoff, and contaminated underwater or soil. Achieving full containment is challenging in most situations, making the collection and cleanup processes costly and complex. However, an alternative approach that proves more cost-effective is replacing non-persistent foam with Fluorine Free Foam.

The Benefits of Replacing Non-Persistent Foam:

  1. Cost Efficiency: The expenses involved in collecting and disposing of non-persistent foam and associated substances can quickly accumulate. By adopting Fluorine Free Foam, you can avoid these ongoing costs and allocate resources more effectively.
  2. Environmental Responsibility: Non-persistent foam can have detrimental effects on the environment. Replacing it with Fluorine Free Foam eliminates the need for extensive containment measures, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable approach to firefighting.
  3. Streamlined Cleanup Processes: Unlike non-persistent foam, Fluorine Free Foam is easier to handle and clean up. Its environmentally friendly composition simplifies containment and disposal, reducing overall cleanup efforts and associated costs.
  4. Compliance with Regulations: Adhering to regulatory requirements is crucial for any organization. By transitioning to Fluorine Free Foam, you ensure compliance with regulations surrounding the proper management of firefighting foam discharge.

Make the Cost-Effective Choice:

Choosing to replace non-persistent firefighting foam with Fluorine Free Foam not only saves costs but also demonstrates your commitment to environmental responsibility. By adopting this alternative, you streamline cleanup processes, comply with regulations, and contribute to a safer and more sustainable future.

Contact us today to explore the benefits of replacing non-persistent foam and learn how Fire Engineering Solutions can assist you in implementing this cost-effective and responsible solution. Together, let’s pave the way towards more efficient and environmentally conscious firefighting practices.

If you are looking to replace C8 or C6 foam, or need to know more, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Our Certifications

Professional certification says a lot about a company

We are proud to have been awarded ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certifications, an internationally recognised standard that ensures our services meet clients’ needs through an effective quality management system.